Specials (Uglies Trilogy, Bk.3), By Scott Westerfeld

By: Scott Westerfeld

• Reading level: Young Adult
  
• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Simon Pulse 
• Publishing Date: September 11, 2007
• ISBN-10: 0439025664

Classification: Fiction
Genre: Science Fiction
Series Title: The Uglies Trilogy

Uglies

Pretties

Specials

Extras 

Subjects: beauty, dystopian society, fitting in, super-heros, body image, love

Reader's Annotation: In book three of the Uglies Trilogy Tally Youngblood returns with a special new purpose. But is this just another doomed twist in her journey for truth or is she finally on top of the game?

Synopsis: After being betrayed in a heartbreaking twist at the end of the Pretties, Tally Youngblood seems to have come out on top. The intended finale to the trilogy, Westerfeld explores the darkest nature of body image and supremacy in this final installment of the adventures of Tally Youngblood. Finally she is the one in charge, and it is clear that her skills are closer to a super hero then the ugly young girl we met in Uglies. But Tally can't let go of the past, even if everything has been rewired for her. Once again Tally follows her inner instinct to take on the powers that be and to reclaim the life that has been stolen from her. And who knows, maybe in the end, she may have some say in the way her world is run. 

Notes: Do not read this book if you haven't read the first two books. This is not a stand alone story. That being said, it is a powerful ending to the Uglies and the Pretties! The issues being raised leave great room for poignant discussion, as all Westerfeld's books do. I think the series as a whole is a strong choice (in line with Little Brother, By Doctorow) for YA in the classroom.

Stars: 5